Eastern graduates encouraged to remember their roots and family values

5/10/2013

WILBURTON, OK (May 10, 2013) – Retired Boeing Company Engineer and Space Shuttle Mission Manager Evelyn Jo Whisenhunt-Guthery challenged the Eastern Oklahoma State College Class of 2013 to remember their roots and values during commencement remarks May 10 in the C.C. Dunlap Field House in Wilburton.

“You may not yet realize what a great foundation, and indeed a gift, you all have received to have been raised and educated in southeast Oklahoma,” said Whisenhunt-Guthery, a 1972 Eastern graduate and 2010 EOSC Hall of Fame inductee. “No matter what you choose to pursue, know yourself, remember where you came from and never compromise the values of your upbringing.”

She also reminded graduates that the nation is facing many challenges in national security, the economy, healthcare, energy, food supply and other areas.

“I am confident that you are up to the challenge. Remember, our families, our way of life and our country are all depending on you to do your best and do the right thing,” she concluded.

Eastern’s 327 graduates included 168 students who earned an associate of art degree, 100 who earned an associate of science degree, 49 who earned an associate of applied science degree and 10 who earned one-year certificates of mastery.

Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities have produced thousands of college graduates ready to enter the workforce this spring.

The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education estimates that more than 33,400 students will earn degrees during the 2012-13 academic year at Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities. Of those graduates, an estimated 9,200 will earn associate degrees with general studies, nursing and business listed as the most popular fields.

Business, education and nursing were the programs most frequently selected by the projected 17,500 students that will receive bachelor’s degrees. An estimated 5,100 students will receive master’s degrees in a variety of fields. Projections show that 680 students will earn doctoral degrees, while approximately 870 others will receive professional degrees in areas such as law and medicine.

“This is a truly special time for the thousands of students who will be graduating this year from Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “These graduates are the future of Oklahoma. The State Regents applaud their efforts and wish them well in their future careers endeavors.”